I purchased my van for 2,750 from an elderly man who owned it since it was new, who already rebuilt the transmission (1,800) at 70k miles and it was well taken care of... so I thought it was worth putting money into.
However, since I've owned it I've had to replace:
Back windshield wiper motor ($50).
Both front headlights ($200).
A front CV joint and axle (mechanics have told me driving it with a bad cv joint can destroy even a brand new transmission) ($300)
The water pump (300)
Cruise control is still inactive.
Clear coat would peel off under a high pressure car wash, so since I liked this van I spent $800 at maaco for new paint.
I replaced carpet myself ($50 carpet at GCO)
Needed large front motor mount ($150)
Needs the other two small motor mounts replaced now (will be $300)
Heater hardly works for some reason.
A/c has leak and will probably go out soon, recharged freon lasts a year, but is weak anyway.
From time to time the check engine light turns on, then goes away.
I replaced every fluid and filter and belt my van needed in a $377 tune up, but sometimes when I press the accelerator down there is no response for a moment, then it bursts on suddenly.
A few weeks ago my van started making high pitched wining sounds from under the hood when I would accelerate...
I took it to three different mechanics and they all told me the terrible news: it would need ANOTHER rebuilt transmission job. Why!!!
I wanted to love this van... but about every two-four weeks a new problem would crop up that requires repair, after I have just spent money fixing the last problem it had.
I have no choice, but to recommend that you SHOULD NOT invest any money in these 91-95 model: Caravans, Plymouth Voyagers, or Chrysler Town and Country's.
You won't be driving it long before you'll have another problem to fix... Buy japanese, they don't have as many of these little problems American made cars have.
I've put a total of $6,000 into this van, and I hoped and hoped that it would be reliable for me,
but I finally chose to buy a different car, rather than put another 2 grand into rebuilding the transmission and motor mounts, AND WAIT FOR SOMETHING ELSE to go wrong with it! I just can't stand constantly throwing away money into it, when Kelly Blue Book says it's only worth $1,500!
On the plus side, these vans have GREAT sound quality, a comfortable ride, room for vacations and group trips, and great acceleration.
If you want to gamble with your money and buy this kind of van, it's your choice, but be prepared for MANY repairs.
I am not an expert on the car, but this is what have worked for my van.
Problem: Van not moving when you press acceleration..
Solution: Did you try changing the transmission fluid?. Trust me, If you have not changed this fluid.. do it. Don't topoff.. Add bit by bit... If you have already tried this.. then it is indeed what mechanics dread...
Good Luck!
RK.
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